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WHAT’S IN A NAME ? Why Plet and not the more familiar Plett? No. Its not a mistake... The reason we spell the Plet Summer Scene like we do is that this is the way it used to be spelt before the newer guys made it Plett. According to folk talking to us over the years, it seems the first guys who mis-spelt it were the Het Suid Westeren which was the regional paper servicing the area. When we arrived in 1983 we did not know any better, so continued to use Plett on the What’s New in Plett … which is now regarded as the correct spelling by most … Most of the older holiday home owners and visitors still hate the fact that it has been made Plett, and since the Plet Summer Scene is distributed while many of them are here, we bow to their prior knowledge… and many are delighted and say so. Interestingly, Beacon Isle Kwikspar also have the town spelled as Plet on their posters outside… What’s you view? Plet or Plett ? Drop us a line at helloplett.co.za
A big welcome to all our holiday guests . To those who are discovering the magic of Plett for the first time and those whose hearts are already here, having spent great times in our area before. A special welcome back to our Hollipletts, those who have homes here. May you all have a wonderful relaxing and revitalising time with us. Our shopkeepers and service providers are at your service. Please support our advertisers who made this publication possible.
FESTIVE GREETINGS FROM EXECUTIVE MAYOR LULAMA MVIMBI Six years ago when FIFA President Sepp Blatter opened an envelope that said South Africa had been chosen as the next country to host the FIFA World Cup, our minds were opened up to the greatness that is the destiny of the people of South Africa. The planning and excitement that followed resulted in our nation hosting the greatest World Cup ever in 2010. Although we didn’t host a soccer team in Bitou, the spirit of the World Cup was as tangible in Bitou as anywhere else in our country. Many members from our community attended the event through concerted efforts from the Municipality in conjunction with FIFA. As this year comes to a close, we can safely say that in the year 2010 the people of Bitou have truly worked hard to “Be the best together”. We reached important milestones as a Municipality and in the Community at large. For instance, Bitou Municipality hosted the Deputy President and the Premier of the Western Cape in the Anti-Poverty Campaign Assessment, we successfully achieved a third consecutive unqualified audit in 2010. We extensively provided housing and improved markedly in other service delivery areas including infrastructure development in previously disadvantaged areas i.e the construction of the first Library and Fire station for Kurland and environs. We have also been able to provide Business Administration Learnerships to fifty youth and job placements to thirty young people in the Municipality. Bitou Municipality promotes its developmental agenda through continued engagement and consultation with all stakeholders in order to improve socioeconomic conditions of all in the Municipality. Whilst the festive season is a time for relaxation, connecting with friends and family and reflection on the past, it is also an opportunity to plan for the future. Based on the success of the World Cup, we expect an increase in the number of visitors to South Africa, and to the Jewel of the Garden Route during the festive season. As in past years, the Municipality will augment its staff compliment by employing part-time workers in order to
continue delivering services to all in Bitou during the festive season. We are determined to provide a safe environment for all residents and visitors and therefore call on the community of Bitou to assist law enforcement agencies in keeping everyone safe over the holidays by reporting suspicious behavior and crime to police. Residents and holiday makers alike are to be mindful that Plett is a water scarce area and adopt the three Rs when consuming water, namely, Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. 2011 promises to be an exciting year with the Local Government Elections likely to take place during the first half of the year and the SA Statistics Census 2011 taking place early in October 2011. We encourage all eligible South Africans to exercise their Constitutional Right and to register to vote. Similarly, we call on all people living in Bitou to stand up to be counted so that the Government is able to plan for improved provision of services to all who live in South Africa. During 2011, Bitou Municipality will also embark on a StatsSA endorsed Disability Survey in order to improve programmes aimed at addressing the needs of the disabled in our community. On behalf of the entire Municipality, we welcome all matriculants to our shores and hope they will enjoy the beauty of our area and the extensive Matric Rage programmes in a responsible manner. We extend a further hearty welcome to all our home owners and visitors. We would like to wish you all and your families a safe and blessed festive season.
We wish you all a wonderful Festive Season and all good wishes for 2011
wetlands, Zoning of the estuaries, e.g. wakefree zones and skiing areas, Increased compliance monitoring capacity, Land use activities in relation to floodlines and the coastal protection zone, Development of Municipal by-laws that deal with estuary-associated activities, Rehabilitation of property and structures damaged by floods, Education initiatives to raise awareness of estuaries and the responsibilities of users, Research requirements, and Monitoring programmes to assist determining the effectiveness of the EMP.
Keurbooms Estuary Management Plan Enviro-Fish Africa has been contracted by CapeNature to develop an Estuary Management Plan (EMP) for the Keurbooms and Bitou estuaries in accordance with the requirements of the Integrated Coastal Management Act (Act 24 of 2008). Funding for this project has been provided by the C.A.P.E. Estu-
aries Programme, the Eden District and Bitou Municipalities and Marine & Coastal Management. The purpose of the EMP is to identify management issues within eight key result areas and provide management actions plans that deal with these within the framework of existing legislation. The key result areas are Water Quantity & Quality, Conservation (biodiversity and heritage resources), Sustainable Utilization of Living Resources, Land Use & Infrastructure, Institutional & Management Structures, Sustainable Livelihoods, Tourism & Recreational Use and Education & Awareness. Some of main issues that have been addressed are; Water quantity – the ecological reserve (freshwater inflow requirements), Protection of Critical Biodiversity Areas such as the Tshokwane and Bitou
The responsibility for implementation lies mostly with the various Government institutions that have a mandate to enforce the various forms of legislation. However, in order to coordinate this and ensure transparency, an estuary management forum will be established that is representative of all stakeholders. This forum (to be established early in 2011) will be responsible for co-ordinating implementation in a way that keeps all stakeholders informed, thereby ensuring that the end product reflects the needs of both the estuary users and the environment. At present the EMP is still in a Draft format and is therefore open for discussion and amendment based on stakeholder input. Requests for additional information and any comments may be directed to Aidan Wood (tagfish@telkomsa.net).
Garden Route Perimeter Security
044 5334054 / 0832843320 E. secura@mweb.co.za Web. www.securafence.co.za
* Palisade Fencing & Gates * Wire & Wooden screening * Wall Spikes & Razor Wire * BIRD SPIKES.. no more poops! * Electric Fencing
Some highlights of the year 2010 has been a challenging year for Plett. More and more businesses are trying to make a living and the slice of the pie is getting thinner and thinner.... Like the rest of the country, we were infused with Soccer fever. Football Friday was a lot of fun and the shops did their best to make it all festive. Even though we were far from the main centres we did have a few nights with the soccer fans from Holland, Denmark and England. The public viewing sites were much appreciated by the soccer fans. Our sporting greats Kevin Evans and Michelle Eray did us proud once again with cycling and paddling respectively. Another big sports hero to many of our hearts is Duncan Brown from Beacon Isle Kwikspar. Last year Duncan did the iron man and raised R57000 for Children with disabilities . The community sponsored him per kilometre for the 226 km. This year Duncan teamed up with ironman4kids, the PE based charity and through corporate sponsorship, raised a wopping R100 000 for this essential service in our area. Sterreweg was really blessed! Not only does Duncan enjoy the challenge, but combines it with a good cause. Long may the energy continue! There have been a lot of fun activities, Plett local talent showcased , Offthe Hook
Plett.... where people hunt pansies and have a whale of a time!!
(and we all work together to be the best together)
have introduced some fun adventure races., and and and....Plett still the best place to be... In November the Garden Route hosted its first ever Capoera Conference. Plett was also very honoured to host the 3rd Independent Development Trust Development Week where the NGO’ s and welfare organisations interacted with national organisations , ministers and other inspirational project leaders. At the end of the week the following was agreedon for healthy, sustainabler growth in the area. - Communities must be respected; - We are committed to self development; - We will promote job creation through locally driven projects; - Transferring of skills and capacity building at the local level is critical; - We will work together with Government, the IDT, NGO’s, the Private Sector & other communities; - Projects must be community driven; - As communities we will meaningfully engage in project implementation, monitoring and evaluation; - We will pursue tourism opportunities to eradicate poverty; - We will make effective use of our assets and gifts to ensure sustainable socio-economic development of our communities; -Government must be practical. Good solid aspirations. Plett continues to bring challenges & rewards and is forever changing... the sign of a true community.
Every Day
15—19 December
top musical talent
Plett Market on Main - daily 9h00-late Birds of Eden, Monkeyland, Equitrailing, Elephant Encounters, Keurbooms River Trips, Wolf Sanctuary, Noah’s Animal Park, Wild Waters Park, Ocean Safaris. Game Drives, Nyati Mampoer Tours Booking Plettenberg Bay Tourism Main Street. Tel 044 533 4065
10am – 4pm Art in the Garden at Graine’s Gallery, Ebenezer Estate
7pm Circle of Life at Barnyard Theatre, Crags Jamie Jupiter at Surf Cafe
Friday 10 December 7 pm Chris & Nick partying it up at VIP night club, Industrial Area Tigger at Surf Cafe
Saturday 11 December Polo - Formosa Cup - Twelve Goal & Plettenberg Bay Six Goal 7pm Price special – Hunters / Klipdrift& Cola / Mainstay at Flashbacks Pub, Lounge & Pizzeria 8am-12pm Harvest Time Market, N2 Harkerville - local delicacies! Miniature Train Rides next to Wild waters. See station notice board for running times or phone 044 533 3189 for information.
Sunday 12 December 9am - 2pm Kurland Food market at The Crags. Fabulous Food & Crafts 7pm Price special – Hunters / Klipdrift& Cola / Mainstay at Flashbacks Pub, Lounge & Pizzeria 7pm Just Jinger at Plett Barnyard Theatre, Crags Rodriguez Tribute at Surf Cafe Show
13 - 23 December Polo S.A Open Fifteen Goal, Summer Cup - Eight Goal, Plettenberg Bay Two Goal
Monday 13 December 7pm Just Jinger at Plett Barnyard Theatre, Crags
Tuesday 14 December 7pm Tribute to Brian Adam at Plett Barnyard Theatre
Wednesday 15 December Miniature Train Rides next to Wild waters. See station notice board for running times or phone 044 533 3189 for information. 7pm Bobby van Jaarsveld at Plett Barnyard Theatre, Crags Open Mic at Surf Cafe
Thursday 16 December 4pm - 8:30pm Annual Street Party / Carnival and Switching on of Festive Lights in the Main Street – entertainment, parade and good food!!! 7pm Watershed live at Barnyard Theatre, Crags
Friday 17 December 9am-4pm Billabong Girls Get Out There – Central Beach 7pm Bobby van Jaarsveld at Plett Barnyard Theatre, Crags The Vans at Surf Cafe
Saturday 18 December
Monday 20 December 7am Vinyasa Yoga sessions by Claire at Central Beach 5.30 for 6pm The Power of Relationships at St Peters Anglican Church hall R50 entry for Tracker Academy 7pm Circle of Life at Barnyard Theatre, Crags Carols at the Knysna Elephant Park in aid of Plettaid Foundation
Tuesday 21 December 7am Vinyasa Yoga sessions by Claire at Central Beach 9am-4pm OROS promotionCentral Beach 7pm Rocking All over the World at Plett Barnyard Theatre, Crags 8pm Guitar music by popular musician Johan Rautenbach JoRa St Peters Hall Plettenberg Bay Jacobus Silwer at Surf Cafe
7am Vinyasa Yoga sessions by Claire at Central Beach 8am-12pm Harvest Time Market, N2 Harkerville - local delicacies! 9am-4pm NIVEA Sun Beach Activation- Central Beach Miniature Train Rides next to Wild waters. See station notice board for running times or phone 044 533 3189 for information. 7pm Best Days of Our Lives at Plett Barnyard Theatre, Crags
Wednesday 22 December
Sunday 19 December
7am Vinyasa Yoga sessions by Claire at Central Beach 12h00 for 2h30pm- S.A Open, Kurland Polo Pavilion, tickets R150 per car 7pm Jason Hartman at Plett Barnyard Theatre, Crags
6:30am Registration. Event start 7am Total Beacon Isle / N.S.R.I Fun Run 7am Vinyasa Yoga sessions by Claire at Central Beach 9am - 2pm Kurland Food market at The Crags. Fabulous Food & Crafts 6pm Carols by Candlelight at Central Beach, bring your candle and enjoy
7am Vinyasa Yoga sessions by Claire at Central Beach Miniature Train Rides next to Wild waters. See station notice board for running times or phone 044 533 3189 for information. 7pm Rocking All over the World at Plett Barnyard Theatre, Crags Heather Waters at Surf Cafe
Thursday 23 December
Friday 24 December 7am Vinyasa Yoga sessions by Claire at Central Beach
8am-12pm Harvest Time Market, N2 Harkerville for all local delicacies! 9am-4pm NIVEA Sun Beach Promo-Central Beach 7pm Mark Banks at Plett Barnyard Theatre, Crags
Saturday 25 December MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!
Sunday 26 December
Plett Barnyard Theatre, Crags Laurie Levine at Surf Cafe
Thursday 30 December 7am Vinyasa Yoga sessions by Claire at Central Beach 9am-4pm Revlon infinitive promoCentral Beach 7pm Tribute To 60’s & 70’s at Plett Barnyard Theatre, Crags
Lynesse at Central Beach 9am-4pm Elizabeth Arden Sun Awareness Campaign Central Beach 17.30 Art Auction Fundraiser for environment at The Whitehouse. R150pp 7pm Tribute to Queen at Plett Barnyard Theater, Crags
Wednesday 5 January 7am Vinyasa Yoga sessions by Lynesse at Central Beach 9am-4pm Elizabeth Arden Sun Awareness Campaign Central Beach Miniature Train Rides next to Wild waters. See station notice board for running times 044 533 3189 for info. 7pm Tribute to Queen at Plett Barnyard Theater, Crags
7am Vinyasa Yoga sessions by Claire at Central Beach 9am - 2pm Kurland Food Market at The Crags. Fabulous Food & Crafts 9am-4pm Oakley Ice PromotionCentral Beach 7pm The Bats at Plett Barnyard Theatre, Crags
Friday 31 December
Gerald Clarke and Stefan Dixon at Surf Cafe
Saturday 1 January 2011
Thursday 6 January
11am-6pm New Year’s Day Celebrations, Central Beach Restaurant & Clubs
7am Vinyasa Yoga sessions by Lynesse at Central Beach 9am-4pm Elizabeth Arden Sun Awareness Campaign Central Beach 7pm Barry Hilton at Plett Barnyard Theatre, Crags
27 December - 2 January Polo Kurland Cup - Twelve, Six & Two Goal
Monday 27 December 7am Vinyasa Yoga sessions by Claire at Central Beach 8am-2pm Sabrina Love Ocean Challenge 2010- Central Beach 7pm Clint & Co at Plett Barnyard Theatre, Crags
Tuesday 28 December
7am Vinyasa Yoga sessions by Claire at Central Beach 7pm Mike Mccallaugh at Plett Barnyard Theatre, Crags NEW YEAR’S PARTIES CLUBS AND CENTRAL BEACH New Years Bash at Surf Cafe
Sunday 2 January 2011 7am Vinyasa Yoga sessions by Lynesse at Central Beach NSRI Golf Day Plett Country Club. 9am - 2pm Kurland Food market at The Crags. Fabulous Food & Crafts 12h00 for 2h30pm- Formosa Cup, Kurland Polo Pavilion, R 150 per car 7pm Let me Entertain You! at Plett Barnyard Theatre, Crags
7am Vinyasa Yoga sessions by Claire at Central Beach
Them Frog at Surf Cafe
Sabrina Love Challenge Day 2 CapeNature grounds, Keurbooms. Nick and Dave at Surf Cafe 7pm Clint & Co at Plett Barnyard Theatre, Crags
3 January - 9 January
Wednesday 29 December 7am Vinyasa Yoga sessions by Claire at Central Beach 9am- 4pm Durex/Tropitone Summer of Fun Tour 2010-Central Beach Kurland International - Twenty Four Goal Miniature Train Rides next to Wild waters. See station notice board for running times or phone 044 533 3189 for information. 7pm Tribute To 60’s & 70’s at
Polo - Plett Challenge Twelve, six & Two Goal
Monday 3 January 7am Vinyasa Yoga sessions by Lynesse at Central Beach 9am-4pm Elizabeth Arden Sun Awareness Campaign Central Beach 7pm Clint & Co live at Plett Barnyard Theatre, Crags Peter Hoven and Natalie Chapman at Surf Cafe
Tuesday 4 January 7am OfftheHook Surfers Run in aid of NSRI supported by Plett Sports 7am Vinyasa Yoga sessions by
Heather Waters at Surf Cafe
Friday 7 January 9am-4pm Elizabeth Arden Sun Awareness Campaign at Central Beach 07-Jan Tigger at Surf Cafe
Saturday 8 January 2011 8am-12pm Harvest Time Market, N2 Harkerville - local delicacies! 9am-4pm Elizabeth Arden Sun Awareness Campaign at Central Beach Miniature Train Rides next to Wild waters. See station notice board for running times / ph 044 533 3189 for info. 7pm MAG 7 at Plett Barnyard Theatre, Crags Jan Pik Swart at Surf Cafe
Sunday 9 January 2011 9am-4pm Elizabeth Arden Sun Awareness Campaign at Central Beach 9am - 2pm Kurland Food Market 7pm MAG 7 at Plett Barnyard Theatre
MICHELLE IS BACK from the U.K
Healthy Living
Ex Tangles Hair Creations NOW
YOUR ONE STOP LOCAL HEALTH SHOP Vitamins, organic foods, sports, natural beauty, gifts, essential oils etc.
Mangold Point
IRIDOLOGIST/HERBALIST Shop 1, Main St, Noël Centre (next to Caltex) Plettenberg Bay Tel: (044) 533 2423
Tel No 044 533 6986 Cell: 071 297 2541 look forward to seeing you
Ocean Ink Tattoos • Tattoos •Permanent Make-up • Henna Tattoos • Body Piercing 10 Noel Centre, Main St, Plettenberg Bay Portfolio on Facebook Estelle van der Walt
itsmydog@hotmail.com When a child is allowed to do absolutely as he pleases, it will not be long until nothing pleases him.
NIEWOUDT &
Co Kie
CONSULTING ENGINEERS RAADGEWENDE ENGINIEURS
Plett is so proud of Wendy Brown, a local writer and artist, who has written an inspirational award winning book. Get yourself a copy or give it as a gift. In October 2009 Crink in conjunction with Leisure Books ran a This is My Story Competition. They were looking for an inspiring story about a life-changing event and received manuscripts from all over South Africa. After a 'grueling selection process' the Crink team 'fell in love with Wendy Brown’s manuscript, Light on a Dark Canvas' which they have now published and describe as ‘simply as beautiful a story as her paintings’. Wendy and her husband Neville realised their dream in Zimbabwe and then lost it. Her story gives a firsthand, fresh and sometimes surprising perspective on turbulent times and reveals the beauty of the country, the strength of community and the resil-
ience of the human spirit. Through the trauma she discovers that it is possible to lose and yet win, to be defeated and yet triumph; to carry no burden of bitterness and be free to move on. Her story carries the enduring message that courage, caring, love and laughter shine light in the darkest of times. It shows the difference made by tolerance and forgiveness and how life can be celebrated in spite of its blows. “I thought it was one of the best books I've read recently aboutZimbabwe. The more deeply personal, the more universal, and it is sorestrained.”– LizStewart , Editor “This book will inspire you to keep looking up. The darker the sky, thebrighter the stars shine. I really recommend it.” AngusBuchan Light on a dark canvas ( ISBN no 978-062047752-9) can be ordered over the Internet from www.crink.co.za and by phoning direct sales tel 0861668368. It can also be purchased from PNA Main Street and Bargain books Market Square.
CX Appliance Plett PO Box 1450 Plettenberg Bay 6600
Servicing Defy & All Leading Brands of Domestic Appliances Dave Visser Pr Eng BSc Eng MSAICE
Cell: 082 820 0245 PO Box 998, Knysna 6570 Noel Centre, Main Street, Plettenberg Bay 6001 Tel: 044 533 6891 Fax: 044 533 6892 Email: nieuplett@isat.co.za
Washing Machines Δ Dishwashers Δ Tumble Driers Hobs Δ Stoves Δ Ovens Δ Fridges Δ Microwaves Prompt Service Δ Reasonable Prices Δ Quality Guarantee
Call Jon Wall now 072 1493351 or fax 044 5331628
Market Square, Plettenberg Bay TEL: 044 533 4331 FAX: 044 533 4341
TRADING HOURS Wednesday 15 Dec Thursday 16th Friday17th Saturday18th 20th - 23rd Friday 24th Saturday 25th Sunday 26th Monday 27th Tuesday 28th Wednesday 29th Thursday 30th Friday 31st Saturday 1st January Sunday 2nd January Monday 3rd January
08h00 - 19h00 07h30 - 19h00 07h00 - 20h00 07h00 - 20h00 07h00 - 20h00 07h00 - 19h00 CLOSED 08h00 - 19h00 08h00 - 19h00 07h00 - 20h000 07h00 - 20h00 07h00 - 20h00 07h00 - 20h00 08h00 - 18h00 08h00 - 19h00 08h00 - 19h00
wishing all our Customers & Friends a wonderful Festive Season
Seahorses make good dads ! Seahorses may look like horses but they are really fish. They live in patches and stay in one place by curling their tail around a stem. They feed by sucking up water through their long snouts. The female sea horse lays her eggs inside a pouch that the male has. He keep them there until they hatch after which the babies stay near the dad and jump back into his pouch when danger threatens.
Did you know
&
September 22nd is Elephant Appreciation Day
KELVIN Upstairs Market Square
DESIGNER HANDMADE JEWELLERY Roger Harris & Logan Harris
HAIR
Market Square, Plettenberg Bay, South Africa Tel / Fax: 044 533 4865 / Cell: 082 575 3198 / rogersjs@mweb.co.za
@ WELLNESS WORLD
Specializing in Cutting, Tinting, Perming and Highlighting. Kelvin: 044 533 4646 082 319 3721
www.rogersjewellerystudio.co.za
Quality pet food & accessories with personalised service
044 533 1368
FULL CAR VALETS & STEAM CLEANS
Plett
@ UNDERCOVER CAR WASH Melville’s Centre & Market Square 533 0233 / 082 572 1027 We collect & deliver
THE BITOU COMMUNITY VETERINIARY CLINIC The Bitou CVC was founded in Plettenberg Bay by Dr Bert van Reenen, who is the Chairman. As there is a great need to help animals in the under privileged areas, the owners, most living below the bread line, are just unable to pay for treatments, vaccines, or sterilization. Thus the CVC. We collect money and jumble, and subsidize any costs incurred for the treatment, vaccines and sterilization of the animals. Since March 2009, we have managed to sterilize almost 900 dogs and cats, preventing thousands of unwanted animals being born. We have also treated 100’s of dogs and cats for injuries caused by motor vehicles, dog fights and abuse. Our main aim is to reduce the number of animals. For this reason, we spay mainly wanted females. We also remove unwanted animals, as these are the ones that are really abused and neglected. We have now opened a Charity Shop in the Atmar Centre (behind Pep Stores) to help fund this project. We are always in need of unwanted items – anything from clothing to bric-a-brac, kitchenware and linen. Heidi 082 212 1613
AFRICAN LEGENDS...
TEL/FAX: (044) 533 3661 (044) 533 5228
“Whale and Dolphin Tales”
CELL: 082 872 4764 Credo Mutwa, in his book “Isilwane” (The Animal. Tales and Fables of Africa. Struik, Cape 072 633 2327 Town. 1996), gives an insight into how marine animals fitted into the tales and fables of the ancient African tribes. SHOP E07 / MARKET SQUARE P.O. BOX 330 Mutwa says that Africans PLETTENBERG BAY, 6600 throughout southern Africa believed the whale to be a supernatural creature. Like the elephant, they believed the whale to be the reincarnation of a dead god. Some tribes believed that the whales had been brought to earth, persuade the animal to return to sea. This together with their cousins the dolphins, by the included long chains of warriors with calagreat sea god “Mpangu”, to protect the earth bashes and clay pots, throwing pots of sea against negative beings and forces. water onto the animal, while sanusis and sanAfricans in Kwazulu Natal call the whale gomas sand and played music. When they saw umkhoma, which comes from the ancient a whale swimming close to shore – peacefully Nguni verb khomo, which means ‘to overcome’ and in good spirits – the Zulu people would and ‘to conquer’. Thus, the whale is called ‘the beat drums and sing – to try and communicate conquerer’. with the animal – for they believed that whales Beliefs held by the ancient tribes included that possess “the greatest wisdom any living creawhales possessed almost supernatural intelliture can”. gence, were capable of speech, were once land-dwelling animals but were banished and sent to live in the sea by a Promotes & normalizes immune system jealous god. Purifies & regenerates tissue Among the Zulu Normalises & promotes functions of organs people of days gone by, it was regarded Promotes state of balance throughout as very unlucky for Helpful for people who suffer from ME & Fibromyalgia a school of whales Stimulates expulsion of waste products, toxins and cellulite to beach themImproving efficiency of nutrients being broken down selves in the terri& transported for use around the body tory of a tribe. Whenever a whale in this situation was Once off R480.00 discovered (“rolling 8 X 1.5hr sessions @ R380 each onto the shore and seeking the dark Cottage on Solar Beach. Gift Vouchers Available. embrace of death”), the tribe would do For Appointment call Ilse: 082 422 1492 everything to try and
Whales –
LYMPHATIC DRAINAGE MASSAGE
.
Since there is 6 times as much water as land on earth , any fool can plainly see that it is intended for man to fish 6 times as much as he works.
PLETT SPORTS YELLOWOODS CENTRE PLETTENBERG BAY TEL: 5331230 (Under the Boardwalk)
Widest range of:
Sports Shoes Fashion Wear Diving Surfing Fishing Equipment All Sporting Equipment For personal & friendly advice pop in and see Deon & Jane
Fishing Plettenberg Bay offers anglers many different types of fishing, be it estuary, rock & surf, ski boat and even trout fishing. There is absolutely no reason why any angler visiting Plettenberg Bay cannot be reasonably successful. Elf: The most popular fish to catch in Plett, it can be caught along the surf line, off the rocks and the river. Favourite spots are Beacon Isle, Look-Out Rocks, Robberg and various places at Keurbooms and Nature’s Valley. The best times to catch these fish are early morning and evening, using pilchard bait or spoon. The winter months produce the really big elf. Leervis: These are excellent fighting fish caught mainly during the summer months on spoons, poppers & live bait. The larger ones are caught between the months of April & August. Immediately after the south-east wind, an angler can expect good results at the popular Robberg Point. Other good spots are Meidebank, Beacon Island & Look-Out Rocks. Boats have a lot of success trolling behind the surf line. Galjoen/Hottentot: These fish are caught mainly during winter using red bait or musselworm for bait. Galjoen of up to 5kg are not uncommon. Favourite spots, - Keurbooms, Rooberg & Kranshoek. White Steenbras: This fish is usually about in large numbers between March & October with the average size being around 8kg and large ones of up to 17kg can be caught. They are found mainly off the beaches but can be caught off the rocks. Favourite bait is prawn, chokka, red bait and pilchard.
Situated along the N2, 10km outside of Plettenberg Bay at the Crags. For more information contact Tel: 044-5348857
KOB: These are caught mainly during the summer months and the hours of darkness produce the best results. Fish of up to 15kg can be caught but smaller ones in the 2-5kg class are common throughout the year. Boats have reasonable success fishing off Keurbooms & Nature’s Valley. Kob of up to 10kg can be caught in the Keurbooms River using chokka, pilchard or livebait.
Musselcracker: Mainly a summer fish but they can be caught any time as long as the water is reasonably warm. Favourite bait - crab, siffie & red bait. They are found off Robberg, Keurbooms, Nature’s Valley & Kranshoek. They bite mainly at low tide. Stockfish & Kingklip: Stockfish are the most common fish caught deep sea off the coast of Plettenberg Bay. Both stockfish (hake) and Kingklip are deep water fish. Other Fish: Ski boat anglers can try for red steenbras, santer, carpenter, red roman, dageraad, poenskop, rock cod and geelbek. Other rock and surf fish include stumpnose, blacktail, baardman, mullet, yellowtail and grunter. Estuary Fishing: Grunter, white steenbras, kob, leervis, mullet, springer, elf and white stumpnose can all be found in the Keurbooms and Bitou River. Salt water fly fishing is now very popular and most of these estuary fish will take a fly. Boats, motors and canoes can be hired from the Plett Angling Club Marina situated on the Keurbooms River. General: There are shacks at the Point and Fountain of Robberg Nature Reserve as well as at Stillbaai available for hire through the Plettenberg Bay Angling Club Office, Village Square, ph. 044-533 1325. Ski boat launching facilities off the Main beach are under the control; of the Plettenberg Bay Ski Boat Association. Boats & motors can be hired from Allan at the Angling Club 044 -535 9740 mornings. All anglers, please adhere to the regulations concerning bait collection, fish size, bag limits and seasons. Should you require any further information, please do not hesitate to call on Deon & Jane at Plett Sports, lower floor, Yellowood Centre, Main Street (Under the Boardwalk). We stock a wide range of fishing tackle including ready-made custom -built graphite surf rods.
ANNETTE CERAMICS CC T/A OLD & NEW (aka cash connection) CK 200100038423 / VAT REG NO 4610191738
HOUSEHOLD ITEMS, ANTIQUES, CROCKERY ETC 988 PIESANG VALLEY RD PLETTENBERG BAY
044 533 3196 (PHONE / FAX) oldandnew@xnets.co.za
'You might easily miss the sign off the N2 pointing the direction of THE MILL – along the road towards Monkeyland, Birds of Eden, Elephant Sanctuary and Tenikwa – at the Crags. But one look into the MOHAIR MILL SHOP and you will never again be forgiven for missing the sign. Because their philosophy is to source and promote local and South African produced products, their store is bright and inviting – a splash of colour with a feeling of being at home. And you will feel at home – in the kitchen, in the bedroom, in the kiddies playroom, and even a lounge area for ‘Grumpy Husbands’ – to let their wives shop in peace! All the furniture is for sale, also including bed linen, nguni, springbok carpets and hides – so kitting out your holiday home is no longer a chore. And if the husbands fancy a coffee, have a cappaccino at the Peppermill Restaurant, next door within THE MILL Emporium. You will find the biggest smiles on the faces of Deborah and the other MILL girls, happy to help and advise - in terms of colour, sizing and finish of the vast selection of mohair blankets. Within THE MILL Emporium, visit Siyaphambili Beading Workshop; Katrina’s hand woven carpets; Porcupine Fine Raku Ceramics (where you can kit out your kitchen and bathrooms with original hand-painted basins); Boobabs Gifts and African Art; Zandla Zam handpainted fabrics and African gifts. PLUS a one-stop shop for the garden too – now encorporating a nursery with many indigenous plants and trees. Jordy and his family, the resident angora goats at THE MILL, will leave you feeling like moving out to the country. Embarrassingly, my kids splattered the ‘skaapkorrels’ (pellets) all over the ground in trying to feed these mo-hairy friends. They love to tickle the goats on the
head with the goats vying for the attention. But beware any man wanting to open the gate and enter behind the fence – Jordy is a ball of testosterone and protective of his kiddies and wives! This year, I have decided, I will be doing all my Christmas one-stop shopping at THE MILL
- so I can spend more time on the beach and with the kids. So , not only will your children remind you, but after one visit to THE MILL, you will find yourself making a special trip to this destination store, not a quick pop in en route to Plett or Port Elizabeth.'
Journey intensive training in Plett 2011 For the first time ever in Plett – The Journey Intensive seminar, (an international two day weekend training event) was held at the Country Crescent Hotel on 6th , 7th March 2010. About twenty delegates took part, a mixture of Plettonian's and others from around the Garden Route. Two of the delegates came from as far away as Reunion, and planned their South Africa holiday around this event. Participants commented that the weekend was an extremely powerful one, with much 'emotional baggage' being uncovered and released using the Journey process. They also learned an incredible amount, both from the presenter Lydia Holland (who runs the Journey South Africa), as well as from the video footage of Brandon Bays (the founder of the Journey). From the extraordinary experience of healing from a large tumour in only 6 ½ weeks (without drugs or surgery), Brandon Bays pioneered profoundly powerful process work called the Journey that has created a new paradigm for healing and awakening around the world. People from all walks of life are using her practical techniques for clearing longstanding emotional issues and physical challenges with hugely successful results. Carol Surya is a registered psychologist who has completed several years of Journey training, and qualified as an interna-
Ouland Farm, Airport Road Tel: 044 533 9019 A/h: 082 562 9541 Plettenberg Bay Veterinary Clinic
Fax: 044 533 9020 Email: plettvetclinic@vodamail.co.za
Plettenberg Bay Veterinary Clinic Dr. Jannie Naudé & Dr. André Reitz • Mixed Animal Practice • Dental Work • Emergency Care & Surgery • Vaccinations • X-ray & Ultrasound • Mobile Services • Premium Pet Food & Accessories tionally accredited Journey practitioner with Brandon Bays during 2006. She has used the Journey extensively with adults and children all over the world, as well as bringing this incredibly powerful technique to rural South Africa (via the Transnet Foundation's Phelophepa Health Care train). Having moved to Plettenberg Bay in January last year, Carol helped bring this international training to Plett in March. She regularly offers information and free introductory talks about the Journey to all those who are interested, and has got the Journey team to return to Plett to offer another series of seminars on 12,13, 14 & 15 February 2011. For more info : carolsurya@gmail.com / 077719025
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2010 saw the second year of collabortion between the Tourism department and Lunchbox Theatre to expose our local talent. The finals show in the Whitehouse theatre wa on a par with any great show anywhere in the world. We are so proud of our people!
Our Tshisa Talent Artists are Really Hot!! Just less than 2 months ago saw the finals of Tshisa Talent taking place at the Whitehouse Theatre. This Bitou Tourism / Lunchbox Theatre initiative saw the top 8 artists from over 150 applicants battling it out for the coveted title of Tshisa Talent Artist 2010. And now these artists have gone on to shine their creative lights on other platforms. Miche Collison, Ammori Sass and The Unlimited Band have all gone through to the next round of the ABSA KKNK Artist Development Program. According to Clive Twalo from the Artist Development Program: “100s of artists from across the Eden District Municipality auditioned to be part
of the program but only 20 were selected to go through”. Bitou can be really proud that all 3 of our applicants succeeded in getting through to the next round. They will attend workshops in Oudsthoorn on performance skill, recording contract deals, marketing and the music industry as a whole. Once the workshops are complete they stand a chance to perform at the KKNK 2011 and then go on to attend mentorship programs. Further news is that the line up for this year’s Bitou Tourism
Street Festival on the 16th Dec and the Candlelight Christmas Concert on the 19th Dec will both be made up of only local artists and most of those will be sourced from the Tshisa Talent process. The program is looking very exciting with a diversity of performers for both events. Expect to see Hip Hop, Pop, Gospel, Soloists, choirs and dancers. Our Tshisa Talent website in currently being developed by Insite Solutions and will feature many Tshisa Talent artists and a range of other local performers. The site will be launched by the end of this year and will be marketed to hotels, restaurants, event organizers, wedding planners and the likes. We are in negotiations for a bigger better Tshisa Talent in 2011 and we are sure that many more artists will be auditioning when they see the huge benefits that this year’s artists are gaining. So Tshisa Talent is still HOT!!! And the opportunities for Tshisa Talent artists are still rolling in a plenty.
MORNING ST R Panelbeaters Panelbeating & Spray Painting, Rust Removal & Rust Proofing Bumper Repair, Resprays Valet services & buff and polish Theron Street, across from Robberg Seafoods Industrial Park, Plettenberg Bay GERT NEUMANN 082 776 9203 / 044 533 2727
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A short history of the van Rooyens of Plettenberg Bay
Jan van Rooyen (“first of the Van Rooyen clan to settle in Plettenberg Bay”) bought his own land in Plettenberg Bay in 1810. The bicentenary of this event was celebrated by his descendants, and other van Rooyens currently living in Plettenberg Bay, on Heritage Day 2010 . This covers the period between 1713, when the founder of the South African branch of van Rooyen family arrived in Cape Town, and 1810. Although most of the descendants are Afrikaans speaking, the essays are in English, for the benefit of many of the readers . Cornelis van Rooyen (Van Rooijen, Van Roijen), of Gorcum in the Netherlands, departed from Zeeland on the 14th October 1713 on the ship “Middelwoud” in service of the VOC (Dutch East India Company) as Adelborst (military sea officer’s rank) and arrived during 1714 at the Cape. He married the first of THREE wives (the last TWO were widows) in Drakenstein (now Paarl) in 1720 and she was the mother of all his children. He sold his farm “Nabygelegen” near Wellington in 1741 and thereafter was member of the first “Heemraad” of Roodezand (now Tulbagh) established as court in 1743 for the inhabitants of that area. One of his sons, Gerrit (born in 1732), was a Gamtoos River farmer. Gerrit’s son Petrus Hendrik (born 1767) is the Field Cornet of the Long Kloof, referred to in the last part of this essay. His youngest son, Cornelis (born in 1737) was a burger of Swellendam and so was Cornelis’ son Jan (born in 1771 and baptised Johannes, the same name that was given to his older brother, who probably died before his birth). At this stage the Cape was still “Hollands”. In 1778 Governor van Plettenberg of the VOC visited the bay, which is still carrying his name. Cornelis Botha was found to be the only farmer of substance (his farm is shown on a 1777 map) and woodcutters of the VOC provided Captain Francois Duminy with the first load of timber, which was shipped on De Meermin in 1788. On 18 Jun 1795 the Cape district of Swellendam revolted against Dutch East India Company rule (colloquially called the "Swellendam Republic") but in Nov 1795 the area was reincorporated into the Cape Colony, now under British rule (the first British occupation was at the request of the Prince of Orange). The first wave of terror from the Black-cum-Hottentot marauders hit the Long Kloof in July 1799 and spilled over the mountains to Knysna and Plettenberg Bay. During the series of attacks in1802 one party decided to flee westwards. They were ambushed at “Die Poort” (between Plettenberg Bay and Knysna) and Hendrik Heyns, Guillaum Wolfaart and the young Cornelis Botha (aged 24) died. They were all farmers from Piesang River. The women were held for ransom, but eventually all survived. The Field Cornet of the Long Kloof, P. H. van Rooyen and a commando of 10 men joined another and exterminated the attackers. The Heyns and Wolfaart families shortly afterwards disappeared from the Piesang valley and Plettenberg Bay and old Cornelis Botha died. During 1803 (the beginning of Batavian rule) De Mist visited and in1806 the British occupied the Cape for the 2nd time. The scene was set for Jan van Rooyen (see part 2 next week) Cornelis Botha, the first owner of land in the Piesang River valley, Plettenberg Bay, was a sixth generation descendant of the first member of the Botha family, who landed in South Africa in 1685. In 1768 he married Cornelia Carolina du Preez, who died a short time after the birth of their youngest son, Cornelis Johannes (killed at Die Poort in 1802). He remarried in 1781 to Margaretha van der Wat. Jan (Johannes) van Rooyen (“first of the van Rooyen clan to settle in Plettenberg Bay”) was born in 1771 and married Elizabeth van der Wat in 1791. He now was the brother-in-law of Cornelis Botha senior. In 1810, after Cornelis Botha’s death, he bought part of the Botha lands in the Piesang River valley from Botha’s estate. At this stage the Knysna River, in reports, was still referred to as being in the Plettenberg Bay district, but timber and shipping shifted to Knysna after the Podargus broached the passage between the Heads at Knysna in 1817. In 1818 Jan van Rooyen acquired Brakkloof, including the two areas later known as Vygekraal and Morgenson. Jan and Elizabeth van Rooyen had five children: Margaretha (who married Frederik Christoffel Barkhuizen), Cornelis Johannes (who married Maria Jacoba Kapp), Rachel, Hendrik Petrus (who married Johanna Christina Peo) and Elizabeth Jacomina Johanna (who married Petrus Christiaan Veldman and later Hendrik Willem Smit). In 1831, probably after Jan van Rooyen’s death, the farm was sold to his relatives: Cornelis Johannes and Hendrik Petrus (sons), Elizabeth Jacomina Johanna (daughter) and Frederik Barkhuizen and Petrus Veldman (son-in-laws). Many van Rooyens (almost 30 names are flagged in the family tree) joined “The Great Trek”, when the boers migrated away from British control in the Cape Colony, but the van Rooyens of Plettenberg Bay stayed. In 1847 William Newdigate settled in Piesang valley, owner of seven-eights of Roodefontein (renamed Redbourn). His brother George later lived at Ladywood. They also acquired part of the farm Brakkloof from the van Rooyen family. One of the workers canvassed by the Newdigates in England, William Derbyshire, acquired the land at Ganze Vallei which belonged to R van Rooyen for the first part of the century. Three of the eight sons of Robert Cowley, who also started as one of the Newdigates’ workers, married van Rooyen sisters from Rietvlei, near the Bitou River. In 1871 Thomas Bain wrote about the agreement among the van Rooyen relatives. Most of the land was registered in the name Cornelis Johannes’ son, Jan Hendrik Petrus, but belonged to several families. They had a mutual understanding of homestead, garden and land and put aside a portion of the farm for a general commonage. The farm had splendid lands, orchards, gardens and stock. It was well supplied by water from the Piesang River and included the principal landing place in the bay and had a house of business. Many Boers, in the Cape Colony, resorted to this system, where they got transfer without a title deed specifying land borders, to save survey expenses. A 1874 Deed of Transfer illustrates how this was achieved: A quarter (1/4) share of Kranshoek and a threeeightieths (3/80) share of Piesang River and the adjoining Brakkekloof was transferred from Jan Hendrik Petrus to Hendrik Petrus Lodewyk (son of Hendrik Petrus) and his sons Hendrik Petrus Lodewyk, James Petrus Cornelis, Cornelis Johannes and Johan (nes) Christiaan with joint ownership. In 1884 not a single bid was forthcoming when the erven of the Village of Formosa (now the town of Plettenberg Bay) was auctioned. Four years later the first erven were bought by Thomas
Look Out Art Gallery Plettenberg Bay Visit our Gallery in the Lookout Courtyard and browse through our exciting new Summer Collection of Paintings, Sculptures & Blown Glass by well known South African Artists Phone: 044 533 2210
Horn and William and Frederick Harker. Sporadic buying followed but it was well into the first decade of the next century before 52 out of the 54 plots were sold with Jan Hendrik van Rooyen and Hendrik Petrus Cornelis van Rooyen among the original landowners in the Village of Formosa. How the Anglo Boer war (1899-1902) affected the van Rooyen families of Plettenberg Bay is not known. What is known is that the wife of general J H de la Rey and the wife of general Louis Botha had the maiden name van Rooyen. In 1910 Plettenberg Bay was just another village in the Cape Province, when the union of South Arfrica was formed. Fanie, grandson of Hendrik Petrus Lodewyk van Rooyen, lived in the Piesang River valley and died in 1982 (age 84), but before his death gave a good indication of what Plettenberg Bay was like at the start of the century. His uncle Jimmy (James Petrus Cornelis) farmed, but also cut wood in “Perkes se bos” for a quarter share. It was diversified farming, but specialising in oats. Fanie’s grandfather had a school built on his property in the Piesang River valley, which was to be administered by the church. At this stage the Dutch Reformed Church congregation still had its facilities in Knysna, but periodic services were held in this school. Fanie had vivid memories of his attendance of this school. (Many of the current van Rooyen descendants also attended this Two classroom school.) At one stage Pieter van Rooyen was the principal. The construction of the Norwegian whaling station at Beacon Island was a major event. It operated from 1913 and was finally closed down in 1919. Although whaling was not new to Plettenberg Bay, the mechanised processing was. In 1914 a fire destroyed a large part of the whaling station, but they managed to keep operations going for a couple more years. It is fascinating to note that it mainly operated during the 1st World War (1914-1919). 1927 saw the arrival of some Griquas in the district. The Knysna News, dated 28.1.1927, reported the effort of the Griquas to settle on Four farms in the district and the protest by the farmers. They came from Kokstad in the east, following their leader, Andries Le Fleur (The Reformer/Die Kneg). In 1930 the Dutch Reformed Church formed a new congregation in Plettenberg Bay and the church was built in Wiittedrift (on van Huyssteen land). The van Rooyens, and some other members of the congregation, would have preferred Plettenberg Bay as the site for the church, and this led to a lot of tension between the van Huyssteen and van Rooyen families. Fanie’s brother, Laurie, was married to a van Huyssteen, at this time (an awkward situation), but they managed to weather the storm. Laurie’s farm was next to Robberg, and he was well known among fishermen and holiday makers. He was also the closest available help, if one gets into trouble on Robberg (freak waves). Hjalmar Thesen captured the holiday maker’s experience when he wrote how his grandfather and his family, for the Christmas holidays, and before the advent of motor cars, would re-locate the entire family from his grandfather’s house in Knysna to Robberg by cart horses and ox-wagon with all the usual paraphernalia of tents, cooking utensils, fishing rods and tackle. The camp site was always under the milkwood trees on the Van Rooyen’s farm at the base of the Robberg Peninsula. At the time Laurie hired the entire Robberg Peninsula from either the Admiralty or the Divisional Council for a nominal sum as grazing for his goats. The world wars hardly had any effect on the van Rooyens on their farms. Life was hard, but they had their own animals, vegetables, oats and wheat and provided for their own needs. Some of their children left to find work elsewhere and did not return. James
Email: mwdawns@mweb.co.za
Petrus van Rooyen fought overseas in both wars. His son Cornelius and Koos van Rooyen’s son, Basie, also fought in the 2nd World War. Some van Rooyens however left the police force because they would not sign the oath of allegiance to the Queen. In 1941 Andries Le Fleur died and was buried on Laurie’s farm. After his death one of his sons, Tommy Le Fleur, negotiated with Johannes van Rooyen the lease of the farm Kranshoek. Why Andries Le Fleur’s remains were not relocated to be placed under the pyramid in Kranshoek, as planned, remains a mystery. At this stage, most of the van Rooyen lands were still in the hands of the descendants. The Robberg Peninsula was declared a nature reserve under the Cape Provincial Nature Conservation Department in 1945, mainly due to the efforts of the Thesen and Fourie families, who built huts on Robberg. Laurie van Rooyen could no longer utilise the neighbouring Robberg Peninsula. 1961 saw the birth of the Republic of South Africa, a Plettenberg Bay municipality with its own Town Council, and the death of Laurie van Rooyen of Robberg. As was the case with many other van Rooyens, his children were no longer farmers. His farm was almost sold in 1969 when offshore drilling indicated that gas associated with fossil oil was found about 60 kilometres offshore. Other van Rooyens who played a role in the Plettenberg Bay community was Sias and Oom Daan Koster. Sias was the municipal foreman for many years and D J van Rooyen (Oom Daan Koster) retired in 1972 after 30 years as churchwarden. During this time Plenttenberg Bay was well known as the playing field for the rich. 1994 saw the birth of the New South Africa and a currency exchange rate favouring overseas investors. As a result the alienation of van Rooyen lands was rapidly accelerated as land was sold to developers. In the year 2000 the municipality aquired the land next to the Kranshoek settlement, for housing, from van Rooyens of Robberg. Another form of alienation is threatening the van Rooyens of Robberg. The stone quarry on the farm must be rehabilitated in 2014 according to the existing contract between the land owners and the miners. There is reason to believe that the miners may hide behind new legislation to keep on mining past 2014. The van Rooyen family farm next to the Robberg is still undivided, as was the tradition for the past 200 years. Andrie van Rooyen is living on the farm, while Laurie van Rooyen (the other owner) is living in Paarl. Other van Rooyens still living on the original van Rooyen lands are Johan van Rooyen of Ouplaas (Piesang River valley) and Boer van Rooyen. The bicentenary of the van Rooyen family heritage in Plettenberg Bay was celebrated on the 24th of September 2010 (Heritage Day) with a braai under the milkwood trees on the Robberg farm. God provided good weather and many family memories were shared and old family ties renewed. About 70 van Rooyen descendants were captured on the family photo, although more people attended the celebration. This concludes the 4 part series, but is not the complete history of the van Rooyens of Plettenberg Bay. Any person who wants to challenge any part of what was published, or any person with information that could complete the picture, is invited to contact Andrie at his e-mail address: vanrooyen1@telkomsa.net.
PAUL MITCHELL, JOICO, REDKEN, NIOXIN
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ICE PALAZZO Shop 13 Lookout Centre Main Street Plettenberg Bay
0445335453
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| Ice Cream | Ice Cream Cakes | Creations and Desserts
remains one of the favourite spots in Plett to shop and unwind. Le Fournil Bakery in the courtyard remains laid back and relaxed — great food in idyllic surroundings. Stroll at leisure through the Whale Shop, Willemijn Murray Interiors & Gifts, Lookout Gallery, The Book Nook. Get beautified at Evolve Hair and Beauty, and B Beautiful. The framing expert is Adri at Milkwood, You’ll find the No1 Gasman at Plett Handigas. Delicious ice cream is at Ice Palazzo has delicious ice cream. Leonie Baynes is the resident Attorney. The Surf Shop is a legend for the best surfing gear and authentic Seaside clothing. Core Interiors inspires with their furniture & style. The Print Shop Team are there for copies, faxes and it is also the home of “What’s New in Plett”.
Lookout Centre, Main Street
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073 016 7474 / 072 398 3329 Fax: 086 615 3780 / beabbeautiful@gmail.com
Look Out Centre Main Street Plettenberg Bay South Africa +27(0)44 533 5475 +27(0)82 832 1895 willemijn@lantic.net www.willemijnmurray.com
Come and spoil yourself with any of our treatments Bea & Virginia Keurbooms Nature Reserve
THE BOOK NOOK Secondhand & Rare Books Faye Lazarus LOOKOUT CENTRE Main Street
TEL: 044 533 3230
Comprehensive service offered by Sarah Stevens interior Designer Custom Designed Furniture Art Home Accessories Shop # L 24, Lookout Centre, Main St, Plett 044 533 2216 / 082 771 3256
THE WHALE SHOP PLETTENBERG BAY For all your gifts, curios & memorabilia
044 533 5766
Whiskey Creek Canoe Trail This is a trail like no other. There is just you, your boat and the river. And at the end of the trail, to welcome you, is the overnight log cabin, Whiskey CreekKeurbooms main attraction, other than the river itself. The cabin is to be found on stilts in a forest clearing away upstream above the crook. It is only accessible by Canoe, to one group canoeists at a time. The cabin is immensely comfortable and popular. It consists of a large communal sleeping room that opens out on to a large timber deck, with an open-air kitchen under a generous veranda roof. Off the veranda is the toilet and shower. A stone braai/ lapa has been built into the middle of the deck. A timber walkway leads down to the river, which winds out of a kloof and around past the cabin. The Cabin sleeps 10 people in four double bunks and two single beds. Bookings at CapeNature .
Restore your cutlery, antiques, rings etc with new technique from UK - 079 138 2602 nick@plettsilverplating.co.za The Plettaid foundation continue to do amazing work in our area. Here is their annual report back.
Plettaid Foundation
It seems to me that Plettaid, planning its 7th AGM, is on a tightrope. Can’t go back, can’t stay where it is, must go forward. And its going to take skill and courage from all staff, volunteers and funders. Plettaid has reached a platform from which anything is possible. Firmly anchored in its partnerships with Department of Health and HPCA, we can continue to meet the needs of a health and welfare service that has rallied well but is still hamstrung by the continued incidence of HIV in Bitou communities. Home-based Care has the potential to achieve more and with appointment of professional nursing staff the capacity to continue improving quality of services. The appointment of Michael Jantjies has been a resounding success as he has adopted the ethics of a civil society organisation and plays a strong managerial role. He and Anne have gone the extra mile since March as we have 4 newly appointed caregivers in training with Dept of Health. So far this is manageable with our second PN, Christine Steyn taking up the slack without fuss in the field. The decision of Anne Koopman, HBC coordinator to redirect her focus and train as an auxiliary social worker has opened a channel for Plettaid to expand and ensure that holistic care is real and the pysho social aspect of our service reaches the same quality as the nursing aspect. Helen
Schaffer is adding great value to the team by joining as mentor for the HBC staff and this appointment has also opened a channel, for Plettaid to develop its Care for the Caregiver program, which has been sorely lacking to date. Much effort has been put into moving our Hospice Shop to town. Entering town by having a stall at the market revealed how good it is to have a showcase for Plettaid in town. It is a great opportunity to not only raise funds, but to make friends and receive donations. We followed the modest success of the market stall by taking a considered risk and renting a proper shop in Mellvilles Centre. A few weeks in with this project and it looks very promising. Another risk has been entering into a lease agreement with Parish of Formosa re Trinity House, our first in patient unit. Here this risk is a shift in management matters that stretch our staff to cope with a new schedule. All indicators are that Dept of Health will partner this project from 2011 and if successful, surely each area of Plett can have its own cottage hospital, that family can walk to and feel part of their sick or dying one’s care. LOTTO has given fantastic support to Plettaid this year and our smart new bus is a realistic reflection of the standards of care BCHBC renders. Anglo Chairman’s Fund has managed to fund us for a third time and this is a much valued relationship. Community Chest continues with its annual donation and they are our oldest constant funders and much valued. Department of Health rationalised its partnerships by relieving us of employing the Knysna VCT staff and although this was an emotional separation for us, makes good sense and their continued partnership is key to Plettaid’s operations. HPCA funds from Pepfar are good and constant, but it is their mentorship to us as a development site that adds so much. To us all. And attendance at their annual conference, to which Plettaid sent 3 delegates in 2010, introduces us to global and na-
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tional trends in hospice/home-based care work. I was personally very proud to attend with Anne and Michael and am certain we made our own impact. Nedbank funding has made our food parcel provision a constant service – bringing relief to beneficiaries and staff alike. All our donors, small, grand or in kind, can only be adequately thanked by increased efforts from us all. This has been a hard year for our board members. Only three active members and the burden of accountability has fallen heavily on our chairman and treasurer. This is a crisis situation and must be viewed as such until Plettaid has a strong functioning board. The shortage of strength at board level affects every single staff member and volunteer and I look forward to feeling the relief when this is fixed, which I anticipate will be by the time of our AGM on 1st November 2010. Once there is a strong board, we can revisit our strategic plan (this happens annually in January) and plot our expansion. Of exisiting projects and an objective in our founding document which is education and outreach, which needs to happen. We will investigate including non-medical site VCT testing and HIV workshops. After being so active for so many years, the Woman’s shelter has been very quiet. I have no idea why and feedback from our networking partners reveals no answers. We have to look into this during the next year and see if we can find a way to support women effectively, them being the group most vulnerable to HIV. There is going to be hard work to be done to maintain our 2 * HPCA membership as they upgrade their criteria. Dept of Health has mentioned they might need our assistance with a planned peer educator program. We are going to need to appoint an admin person and more caregivers. We need to make our volunteers into a strong force on their own. There is a lot to do. We can all be very proud of how far we have come. Report compiled by Amanda Frost.
Plettenberg Bay Polo - Fixtures 2010 / 2011
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The format of our Summer Polo Season will change to make it more attractive to overseas patrons and local players from other provinces. Tournaments will be for shorter duration although the overall time span of polo being played in Plettenberg Bay will remain the same.
A busy year for Tenikwa Tenikwa’s Rehabilitation Centre has been really busy over the last few months with an influx of penguin’s and injured or abandoned wild life such as baby duiker and buck, blacked backed jackal pups, aserval caught in a gin trap, baby caracal cubs, and even a baby sub- Antarticseal and many injured birds, including a rare ‘Ludwig’s Bustard’ which was found in PlettAs at the beginning of November we have already received 212 displaced or orphaned animals for rehabilitation. We have had a high success rate with treating these animals especially when they are brought to us timeously by the community and many have been safely released back into nature.. The friendly little bush pig ‘snorkey’ who was destined for the pot, was released at Amakhala Game Reserve where he promptly made himself at home at one of their 5 star lodges before being banished to an uninhabited section of the reserve. Our monthly animal clinics in the local Kurland
village have received remarkable support from the community and we have seen a definite improvement in the overall condition of the animals. Tenikwa sponsored 2 successful spay clinics this year in the village and we are grateful to the local vets from Plett & Knysna for their support in this regard. Tenikwa was invited to contribute to the Bio-diversity Management Plan being formulated for the African Penguin whose status was raised to Endangered this year following a catastrophic decline in the population over the last 4 years . Please be on the lookout for Penguins on our beaches, especially at this time of the year, when the baby blue’s come ashore. All Penguins that come ashore in Plett and surrounds are in need of rehabilitation and should not be left on the beaches. If you find a Penguin please keep it dry and warm and do not feed or give it water. Bring it as soon as possible to Tenikwa. Through our Awareness Centre we continue to raise awareness about threats facing the wildlife in the Garden Route, much of this man made. Our school children program for this year included a snare sweep on vacant land to combat the continuous depletion of our wildlife through bush meat trade. We are open 7 days a week, including Christmas and New Year’s day. Come along to The Crags and meet our indigenous cats of South Africa and know that you are supporting the rehabilitation and outreach work that we do. If you come across any injured wild life or a penguin please contact Tenikwa on 044 534 8170 / after hours Len 082 414 4416, or for penguins Eve on 083 414 6730.
“We are the last generation who can make a difference” www.tenikwa.co.za
11 December - Formosa Cup - Twelve Goal & Plettenberg Bay Six Goal 13 December - 23 December S.A Open Fifteen Goal, Summer Cup - Eight Goal, Plettenberg Bay Two Goal 27 December - 2 January Kurland Cup - Twelve, Six & Two Goal 29 December Kurland International - Twenty Four Goal 3 January - 9 January Plett Challenge - Twelve, six & Two Goal 10 January Cape Town Polo 4 March - 6 March PlettPolo - Eight & Two Goal 11 March - 13 March Plett Polo Eight & Two Goal 18 March - 20 March Plet Polo Eight & Two Goal • 25 March - 27 March Plett Eight & Two Goal 2 April - 10 April Pre Easter Polo Twelve, Six & Two Goal 11 April - 24 April Easter Tournament Fifteen, Six, Two Goal 18 April - 24 April Easter Tournament Fifteen, Eight & Two Goal. Further Enquiries: execdirector@sapolo.co.za Telephone 044 534 8786
Dolphins & Porpoises Dolphins and porpoises are often mistaken for each other, as they look very similar. When traveling in water, it is hard to see characteristics from quick sightings, but there are some ways of telling the two apart… - Dolphins are generally a lot bigger than porpoises, and therefore weigh more. It is hard to tell the sizes of the animals when they are moving quickly through water. - The fin of a dolphin is a hooked shape, unlike the triangular shape of a porpoises fin. - The teeth of a porpoise are spade shaped, whereas dolphin’s teeth are conical to help them eat fish. - A dolphin has a beak that is useful for catching and eating prey. Few species of porpoises have beaks and instead have a flat head. Information supplied by Centre for Dolphin Studies
T OTAL B EACON I SLE For all your motoring & boating needs
Convenience Shop LOTTO ATM FUEL & OIL
Robbie, Jane & The Total Team Tel: 044 533 2023 Fax: 533 0862 Pharos Drive, Piesang Valley We wish everyone a wonderful festive season and a prosperous new year. DON’T MISS … Our NSRI guys and girl offer an amazing service to Plett. Please support and enjoy the two fundraising events during season
TOTAL BEACON ISLE / N.S.R.I. - FUN RUN This will be the 12th Run sponsored by Robbie and Jane Weddell of Total Beacon Isle.
All the proceeds go to our station 14 to cover expenses on a yearly basis. Sunday 19th December 2009 Registration - 6.30am at Total Beacon Isle Run starts - 7.00am Drinks and prizes will be supplied!! Please support a good cause!
N.S.R.I. GOLF DAY The annual event will take place on Sunday January 2nd 2011 at the Plettenberg Bay
Alexa Safaris is a boutique travel consultancy who specialise in sourcing unique Southern African destinations for its global client base. We ensure that every aspect of your journey is carefully managed and considered to guarantee an unforgettable memory. Every journey starts with the first step so why not visit us at our office in Longships House, 2 Longships Drive. Tel: 044 533 3360 / Mobile: 082 895 3881 email: alexasafaris@iafrica.com
Please contact LYNDALL HILL 0827867888 for more info BOOKINGS: www.babylite.co.za / plett @babylite.co.za
Country Club. This is our biggest event for the year and is always well supported by our local and holiday golfers. Mr. Roger Foster - C.E.O. of Airlink has again assisted our local station in a very generous way to making the golf day the great event that is has become. Contacts for bookings :Plettenberg Bay Country Club 044-5332132 ___________________________________
Humpback whale (Megaptera Novaengliae) populations in the Southern Hemisphere migrate northwards from their summer Antarctic feeding grounds, to their winter breeding grounds in the tropics, before migrating southwards back to their feeding grounds It is believed that the humpback whales observed along the South and Eastern coasts of South Africa are heading to , or returning from, breeding grounds roughly situated near Mozambique / Madagascar (Rosenbaum et al 1997). Best et al (1998) suggested three possible migratory corridors leading to and from the breeding grounds of Mozambique and Madagascar, one of which starts as far west as Knysna on the south coast. However, it is not known whether all of the breeding grounds and further more, what percentage of humpbacks observed at the breeding grounds have traveled along the suggested corridor of the south coast. Any breeding ground population estimates may therefore misrepresent the numbers of humpbacks transiting the South coast of South Africa. To date, humpback whale studies carried out in South African water have primarily been focused northwards of Durban, to the breeding grounds near Mozambique and Madagascar ( Rosenbaum et al 1997, Rosenbaum et al 2000) and to lesser extent photo identification, sloughed skin and biopsy sampling on the western coast and eastern coast of South Africa. Understanding the importance for the role of South African waters to the migration of humpback whales is vital to the conservation of this population. This information will help in the continued assessment of status for cetacean species within the Indian Ocean Sanctuary (IOS), which was reviewed and extended by IWC in 2002. At present, the risks posed to South African humpbacks from activities such as commercial fishing, coastal development and ecotourism is poorly understood. By understanding the status of humpbacks within South Africa water, quantification of threats from anthropogenic activity can be made. Assessing the utilization of South African water as a corridor to the breeding grounds will provide important baseline information for future studies of humpbacks both on the African continent and as comparative study to other populations across the globe. Aaron Banks, - Ph. D Student 2004
Breeding Seabirds in Plettenberg Bay area We are blessed with a number of seabirds currently breeding on protected sites along the Plettenberg Bay coastline. One of these breeding colonies is the Seabird Breeding Colony (or “Sanctuary�) on the Keurbooms River. The colony is situated to the left of the river mouth and is demarcated by information boards. It provides a relatively safe nesting site for a number of bird species, including Kelp Gull, Sacred Ibis, Little egret, Spoonbill, Water dikkop, Egyptian geese, Caspian tern, Blacksmith plover, White fronted plover and the endangered African Black Oystercatcher. This species has been monitored in the Plettenberg Bay area for the last 5 years and their numbers prove to be on the increase. At present there are about 13 pairs on
Physiotherapy Longships House Plett 044 533 2249 Amalie & Amy
Keurbooms Seabird Colony. Robberg is another popular nesting area for seabirds, and currently there are Kelp Gull, White Breasted Cormorant and Cape Cormorant breeding colonies. There are also 9 breeding Oystercatcher pairs on Robberg. The breeding season starts at the end of October early November and stretches until April the following year. Oystercatcher breeding success is monitored by means of patrols that are undertaken once a week. The chicks are ringed at +20 to 25 days old. Kelp gull chicks are ringed annually to monitor their dispersion. What you can do for the Breeding Birds 1. When walking on the beach try to keep your dog on a leash. 2. Some nests are in close proximity to boardwalks and view points, and it is thus important to stay on the demarcated areas in order not to disturb these birds 3. Keep below the high water mark in order to prevent the trampling of eggs. 4. No fires must be made on the beach, as birds are especially sensitive during nighttime. 5. When Oystercatchers are alarmed and the birds fly in circles, continue to walk past to allow the birds to return to their
chicks. When adult birds sense danger, they move away from their nests and call to the chicks to hide under boulders or creep into gullies to hide. The Young will only come out of hiding when adults indicate to them that the danger has passed. This may cause the eggs to cook in the hot sun, or chicks to starve or drown on an incoming tide. 6. Collect any fishing line that has been discarded or entangled on the rocks. Fishing line is a great hazard to our sea birds and mammals. Report any illegal or unregulated activities, to help us conserve the Oystercatchers and other coastal species. For further information please contact: CapeNature, Private Bag x1003 Plettenberg Bay, 6600 Phone No.: 044-533 2125/85 Fax: 044-533 0322 email: robkeur@mweb.co.za
Touch Farm - Coffee Shop - Play Park Guided Tours - Gifts - Curious - Art Gallery Trampoline - Party Venue - Picnic Area Timber Wolves - Jackals - Wolf Dogs N2 West, 10 km from Plett towards Knysna Tel 044 532 7539Cell: 079 856 3424
You can also help primates by refusing to buy any products tested on animals. When buying wood products or products from rainforests and other primate habitats, make sure you seek out companies that use sustainable logging and practices. For example, palm oil planWhat everyone wants to see, farming tations in Borneo are delving into orangutan previously caged monkeys released and Proboscis monkey’s natural habitat. Palm to live the rest of their lives in the oil is used in things like soap, processed foods, and personal care products. By checking labels Monkeyland forest. on these products, you can make sure you’re Our rangers conduct monkey not contributing to the destruction. safaris in the forest, where Oppose the use of primates in entertainment previously caged monkeys from all such as movies, television ; don’t spend money around the world have been on entertainment or products that exploit primates, or any animal or that matter. released. Support projects that protect primates in the We are situated 16km east of Plett. wild and/or in natural habitats. Don't visit roadTake the Monkeyland turn-off to the side type zoos that keep primates in small inadequate cages. Don't frequent markets that right and follow our signs for 2km. sell primates as pets, and don’t overnight in There is a fully licensed bar and hotels, or drink in bars that keep these poor restaurant at the sanctuary and we creatures at bay for your amusement. is so much we can do to ensure that are open 7 days a week from There future generations will have the privilege to see 8:00am till 6:00pm primates as they should be living - free and in a natural habitat. Fax: 044 534 8907 As Dr. Seuss said in The Lorax "Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, Nothing is going to get better. It's not." How true is this! Since Monkeyland opened its doors to the food source (bush meat) and also by capturing public April 1998, the sanctuary has actually and selling them into the pet trade. managed changed the way people think about Despite the fact that the sale of bush meat is and treat primates. Not all humans, but quite a outlawed in most countries, it is now being sold few, so that’s pretty awesome I’d say. illegally in Europe and North America and all Many zoos and sanctuaries throughout the over Asia. Bush meat can even be bought at World have followed Monkeyland’s lead - monstores that cater to African immigrants in Paris, key see, monkey do - and now provide a more New York, Chicago, San Francisco, Montreal, natural environment for their lemurs, monkeys and some other major cities including cities in and apes to live in. Some establishments even South Africa. follow our example of mixed specie habitats. Monkeys, lemurs and apes are our closest The best thing about Monkeyland is that it is living relatives in the animal world and their an unforgettable place to visit. The tours are facial features bear a striking resemblance to fun, exciting and very educational. The animals ours. As such, many individuals purchase baby are all happy, healthy and living as they should monkeys/apes believing that these primates - wild and free - in a natural forest habitat. will be a suitable "substitute" or "surrogate" for What else do you want to know? human children. Others are inundated with Yes, we are still doing our bit for locals during images of non-human primates in advertisethe Worldwide economic downturn. Our offer of ments, on television and in the movies, which an “Annual Pass” to our sanctuaries, excludepict infant, and adolescent primates as cute sively for locals has been well received over and cuddly. the past 3 years, and all indications are that it Often the naive viewers are given the impreswill remain a popular choice for as long as the sion that non-human primates would make effects of the global financial crunch continues ideal 'pets'. These individuals are - at best to be felt. misguided. These Annual Passes are worth every penny, The keeping of primates as pets is undoubtand also make meaningful birthday and Christedly one of the worst scenarios that could mas gifts. If you have not got your annual pass, befall them. It is unfortunate that, monkeys, and wish to obtain one, this is how it works and lemurs and apes have become popular in the how you would apply. The once off annual cost exotic animal pet trade, and relatively easily of a single adult annual pass is R250 for either obtainable. A quick search on the internet Monkeyland or Birds of Eden (double the onesalone reveals a few dozen web sites that curoff entrance/safari fee, or R400 if you want an rently specialise in selling baby primates as Annual Pass for both. The once off cost for pets (in all shapes and sizes – how inhumane children aged between 3yrs and 12years of have us humans become?). age is half the adult cost, thus being R125 for a Non-human primates cannot be domesticated, single annual membership and R200 for an and their instincts remain wild and very much COMBO annual membership. intact in captivity. Adult monkeys, lemurs and The Annual Pass as it implies, gives the perapes exhibit aggression and instinctively bite son to whom it is issued unlimited entry for 12 and scratch when provoked. Individuals posmonths from the date it is issued. sessing primate species often attempt to Annual Pass cards which are also referred to change the nature of the animal rather than the as “Membership Cards” can be obtained at nature of the care provided. Such tactics inBirds of Eden reception seven days a week clude confinement in small barren enclosures, during normal office hours 8am to 5pm. Annual chaining, shocking, beating into submission, or Passes can also be ordered online, and your even painful mutilations, such as tooth and nail membership card (or your friends) can be removal. The fact is, non-human primates are posted to you or elsewhere – it is up to you. not meant to be pets. For further information, or to apply for an AnSomething else that needs to be mentioned is nual Pass online please email that baby monkeys and apes destined for the info@monkeyland.co.za / pet trade are literally pulled away from their lara@monkeyland.co.za (marketing) / protective mothers when they are only hours or info@birdsofeden.co.za or contact Lara on her days old. mobile phone 082 979 5683. Always remember that commercial gain (not So swing by for a visit the primates at Moncompassion) is the breeder / seller’s motivakeyland. UK’s Prince Charles once said: tion. How does the saying go; money talks. A “I learned the way a monkey learns - by Capuchin monkey can sell for as much or little watching its parents.” as ZAR 30 000.00. You do the numbers….. You can help by not becoming part of the prob- Let us familiarise our children to as much lem. Educate yourself and your family and nature, and as many animals as possible, so friends. Discourage those around you from that they will take it upon themselves to contributing to the suffering inherent in the preserve our World’s forests and wildlife for the tragic pet trade, be it pet birds, pet snakes, pet generations following themselves. primates etc.
The world’s first FREE ROAMING multi-specie primate sanctuary.
“ This unique forest experience will stay with you Talking about the what’s and why’s
What is a primate? A primate is any member of the biological order Primates, the group that contains all the species commonly related to the lemurs, monkeys, and apes, with the latter category including humans. Non-human primates occur mostly in Central and South America, Africa, and southern Asia. A few species exist up into southern Mexico, and in Asia as far north as northern Japan. Obviously us humans, on the other hand, breed and live everywhere. Primates face an abundance of factors threatening to put them into extinction, but we can still prevent this loss if we so choose to do so. Surprisingly, many people are not aware of, or choose to ignore, the fact that there are so many primate species on the brink of extinction. Unfortunately, primate conservation is low on the list of priorities for a lot of countries (especially ours - South Africa). The only way things are going to change is if people can learn to respect primates as a valuable component in the planets ecosystems, and as our closest living relatives who are in dire need of our compassion and help. The mission of sanctuaries is generally to be safe havens, where the animals receive the best care that can be provided. Most importantly, sanctuaries do not sell the animals in their care, nor are the animals used for filming hands-on television commercials, posedfor photo opportunities and the animals are not subjected to scientific testing. In a nut shell, the resident animals are given the opportunity to behave as naturally as possible in a protected environment. One of the most important missions of sanctuaries, beyond caring for the animals, is educating the visitors. The ultimate goal of a sanctuary should be to change the way that humans think of, and treat, non-human animals. How many living primate species exist today cannot be accurately determinded. The number varies depending on whether closely related groups are considered to be varieties of each other or distinct species. Most estimates are in the range of 230-270 species. The problem is the fact that every few years’ new species and/or sub-species of primates are found. The tropical forests of South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia may still be hiding sub-species that are unknown to the scientific world. Many primate species are now in danger of becoming extinct. The primary cause is deforestation, driven ultimately by the everescalating human population demands. Additional pressure is placed on primate populations by humans hunting them as a
Keurbooms River Ferries SEE the Keurbooms River as you have never SEEN it before, through the LOOKING GLASS of our newly launched glass bottomed boat. YES GLASSED BOTTOM, so sit back and relax with an ice cold beverage and let your eyes and mind be, titillated with majestic scenery as you slip along shimmering waters cascading with dense pristine forest lining your meandering journey. Let your ears be alighted to the mighty sounds of our natural orchestra of bird calls amplified by our amp theatre of gorges. This is a reality for Keurboom River Ferries and our guests who take this journey with us every day. We have been operating on this river for over twelve years and have accumulated a vast knowledge of the area, not only the plant life but also on our bird life of which we have three of the most sought after birds in South Africa. When the opportunity arises we will position the boat for you to gaze upon these sightings with such awe that we will make a birder of you, if you are not one yet. This information we impart with you, on your magical five kilometre journey up the Keurbooms river, to a forest lined river beach, where we stop for forty minutes, This break in the journey affords you the time to explore this intriguing forest up close, with a leisurely stroll through it and then feel what it is like to be dwarfed by four hundred year old yellowwood trees and over eighty other varieties of indigenous trees, draped in a carpet of lichen or better known as old mans beard. Should you prefer, you may relax on the white sandy beach and enjoy a morsel or two, accompanied with an ice cold beverage and then let your skin feel the rest of the pleasures that your other senses have been enjoying with a refreshing swim in silky soft amber waters.
This awe inspiring journey is only a bird call away from Plettenberg Bay. Keurboom River Ferries is based just off the N2 nine kilometres from town. The boats depart every day at 11am, 2pm and 5pm. Each journey is only two and a half hours of pure pleasure for people of all ages, including those of us who are physically challenged. We can accommodate large groups or should you wish to have a private experience you may charter one of our vessels or hire a self drive motor boat and experience the river at your leisure. This forest and gorge experience is only accessible via the pristine Keurboom river estuary so join us on a memorable journey and come and feel a part of what is left of a once mighty forest. This is what the garden route is all about. For any further information please contact us: Guided Ferry Cruises/ Charters: 083 254 3551; Self Drive Motor Boats 082 487 3355 Email: ferry@ferry.co.za Website: www.ferry.co.za
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Clothing and Alterations Noel Centre Zelda 072 9911361
Please keep our beaches and streets clean
Doggie poo bags are available from Robberg Vet Supplies, BI Centre, Robberg Vet Clinic, Longships Drive, Marine Way Animal Hospital, Marine Way @ at a cost of R5-00 for 20 bags, all in aid of PAWS. Please support our suppliers and PAWS. Enjoy your stay in our clean town.
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Motivational talk not to be missed
Former game ranger and conservationist Alex van den Heever will be in Plett to present his talk entitled The Power of Relationships which has become popular with corporate audiences in South Africa and overseas. Alex grew up on a farm outside Plett and over the years there and at boarding school he developed a passionate interest in wild animals and the bush. When he left school at Grey in Port Elizabeth he went to Johannesburg, ostensibly to do a marketing course, but in reality so that he could be as close as possible to the Lowveld, his sights set on becoming a game ranger at Londolozi private game reserve.
KEURBOOMS RIVER FERRIES Situated +/-8km from Plettenberg Bay. Enjoy a 2.5hr Guided Cruise into the untouched Nature Reserve. Bring along your Bathing suites and come experience the power of nature. Ferry bookings: 083 254 3551 OR: Hire a self-drive motor boat and explore the river at your leisure. Boat bookings: 082 487 3355 Email: ferry@ferry.co.za Website: www.ferry.co.za (or find us on facebook= for daily updates)
Fax: 086 543 8685 P O Box 847, Plettenberg Bay, 6600
Tel 533 3773 Cell: 082 696 7830
We Specialize in: Satellite Installation Sound Systems Pivotal in his future would be his relationship with a Shangaan tracker at Londolozi named Renias Mhlongo. Not only would they become lifelong friends drawn together by their mutual love of the African bush, but also later as professional partners sharing their experiences and skills with many others in South Africa and abroad. Alex and Renias started out as a rangerand-tracker team at Londolozi, taking mostly wealthy foreign guests on game drives and introducing them to the bush. Early on, when Alex was still a rookie, they were looking for tracks in a dry riverbed when Alex was charged and knocked down by a female leopard which had a cub nearby. Renias kept his cool and virtually saved Alex’s life by quietly giving him the right instructions as the leopard stood menacingly near, with Alex’s rifle flung out of reach. This and other life-changing experiences were set to become part of their inspirational message together. Alex now presents this increasingly popular motivational talk, based on their mutual experiences, sometimes accompanied by Renias and sometimes on his own. Alex will present The Power of Relationships at St Peters Anglican Church hall in Plett on Monday, December 20 at 5.30 for 6pm. The entry fee of R50 per person will go to the Tracker Academy (an NGO) which he has been instrumental in establishing at Samara game reserve near Graaff-Reinet, information about which he will include in the talk. For further information call Jon or Estelle on 044 535 9321.